Employment: Hull and East Yorkshire

Employment: Hull and East Yorkshire

Find out which law firms are representing which Employment: Hull and East Yorkshire clients in Yorkshire and the Humber using The Legal 500's new comprehensive database of law firm/client relationships. Instantly search over 925,000 relationships, including over 83,000 Fortune 500, 46,000 FTSE350 and 13,000 DAX 30 relationships globally. Access is free for in-house lawyers, and by subscription for law firms. For more information, contact david.burgess@legal500.com.

Andrew Jackson Solicitors LLP¬†is an 'excellent all-round firm' that provides 'good value for money'. The 'commercially aware' team, headed by¬†Jonathan Dale, acts for national and international companies across the UK and boasts particular expertise in the ports, logistics, transport and shipping sectors as well as in the food manufacturing and retail industry. Highlight included acting for Triton Power on the acquisition of its UK power station business by Energy Capital Partners, which involved assisting with TUPE issues as well as amending all employment and governance documents.¬† The¬†¬†'very commercial¬†and¬†knowledgeable' Mary Walker¬†is 'technically very good' and¬†supported the corporate team advising Heron Foods on employment aspects relating to the sale of the company to B&M Stores. In an example of the practices capabilities in disputes, it successfully defended Wren Kitchens in an age discrimination claim relating to the company's recruitment process.¬†¬†

The 'very strong' employment team at¬†Rollits LLP¬†offers 'an¬†excellent service' to its public and private sector clients and individuals. The practice represented¬†Superstadium Management Company in¬†two claims for unfair dismissal, successfully achieving a 100% reduction in the compensation. The team has experience handling disputes relating to discrimination claims, sexual harassment, restrictive covenants and TUPE issues. The team is headed up by¬†Ed Jenneson, who has a specialism for representing clients in the food industry, with clients including¬†William Jackson Food Group.¬†The practice is further strengthened by the addition of associate Caroline Neadley¬†who brings particular expertise in the police sector which has led to the firm securing work from¬†Humberside and South Yorkshire Police. Other changes to the team include the retirement of Donna Ingleby.

The 'exceptional' employment practice at¬†Bridge McFarland¬†is¬†'outstanding in service and cost effective in practice'. Praised for being 'quick to respond and having a strong commercial understanding', the team acts for both local and national companies in a range of employment matters, as well as for senior employees.¬†¬†Lee Whiting¬†heads up the practice and has been described as being ‚Äėthe "go to" lawyer for employment advice in this region'.¬† With a 'straightforward, no nonsense approach'¬†Whiting 'considers matters from a business perspective, offering pragmatic solutions' and has significant experience handling restrictive covenant and trade union issues. Also recommended for her'diligent, skillful¬†and in-depth knowledge¬†on the application of the law',¬†Nicola Barrass¬†offers 'excellent, informed and pragmatic advice', particularly on TUPE-related issues.

The employment team at¬†Gosschalks¬†represents both companies and individuals at the employment tribunal. The practice has been advising clients on TUPE matters, national minimum wage as well as in relation to unfair dismissal and breach of restrictive covenant cases.¬†¬†Ted Flanagan¬†'heads the team with a mixture of sage counsel and sound judgment' and is recommended for his 'down to earth approach and keen forensic analysis of the merits of a claim'.¬†Nathalie Stewart¬†is another key name to note.

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Find out which law firms are representing which Employment: Leeds and West Yorkshire; North Yorkshire clients in Yorkshire and the Humber using The Legal 500's new comprehensive database of law firm/client relationships. Instantly search over 925,000 relationships, including over 83,000 Fortune 500, 46,000 FTSE350 and 13,000 DAX 30 relationships globally. Access is free for in-house lawyers, and by subscription for law firms. For more information, contact david.burgess@legal500.com.

The employment team at Addleshaw Goddard¬†stands out for its 'expert advice,¬†response times and value for money'. The practice has had a successful year of new client appointments, including having been recently instructed as sole employment law provider to Scotia Gas Network which the team is instructed by in tribunal claims, contract updates and in various TUPE outsourcing arrangements.¬† Practice head Sally Hulston¬†has particular expertise in the retail and consumer sector and,¬†following a new panel appointment,¬†¬†is leading advice to Dixons Carphone Warehouse on national minimum wage issues and in defence¬†of several tribunal claims. The team has also been instructed by Froneri ice-cream to provide ongoing general employment and¬†gender pay gap reporting advice, in addition to acting for the company in a large-scale project to¬†alter terms and conditions of zero hour and annualized contacts. The department acts¬†as Vocalink's sole employment law adviser, and is currently assisting the company on¬†various TUPE outsourcing projects, as well as advising on employment considerations following the acquisition by Mastercard of a 92% stake.¬†The team also¬†continues to advise Primark Stores, Moneysupermarket.com and¬†Wolseley Group. Managing associates¬†Gerri Elliott,¬†¬†¬†Andy Graham¬†and¬†'excellent communicator'¬†¬†Joanne Lightburn¬†are key names to note. Elliot has particular expertise advising¬†education and the charity sector clients; Graham is noted for a range non-contentious and¬†transnational¬†matters; and¬†Lightburn for¬†employment tribunal and TUPE negotiations.

The employment practice at DLA Piper¬†leverages its international offices in cross-border matters and represents globally-recognized brands, including Caffe Nero Group, New Balance and¬†Stanley Black & Decker. Supporting its strong corporate department, the team advised John Menzies Plc on employment aspects of its acquisition of ASIG from BBA Aviation plc, including in relation to the application of TUPE. The team continues to illustrate its significant expertise in handling issues relating to the growing 'gig economy' and, led by practice head Jane Hannon,¬†is currently acting for a national delivery company in disputes relating to the employment status of its workers. Following the previous successful defence of related employment tribunal claims, the practice is now representing the company in a class action supported by the GMB trade union. Legal director¬†Louise Hendry¬†‚Äď¬†in addition to having considerable experience in equality and diversity matters ‚Äď¬†has¬†expertise on data protection matters and¬†was instructed by one of the top UK airlines¬†to advise on the implementation of the General Data Protection Regulation in relation to HR data. Another key name to note is legal director¬†Christopher Baker¬†who deals with the full-spectrum of contentious and non-contentious employment advice and leverages his industry knowledge in acting for clients in the media, retail and financial services sectors.¬†David Bradley¬†left the team to head up Ramsdens' employment practice.

The 'exceptional' employment team at Eversheds Sutherland¬†acts for¬†a client list ranging from international corporates - including Hallmark Cards and Thomas Cook Airlines - to local and national companies such as West Coast Trains.¬†Benefiting from offices globally, the practice utilised its cross-border abilities in advising¬†Xylem on employment and compliance aspects of two global outsourcing projects, and a global change management programme led by Paul Cotton. Praised for 'combining first-class legal advice with an understanding of the aims and challenges of a large business',¬†experienced tribunal advocate¬†Simon Rice-Birchall¬†led advice to a¬†leading property, residential construction and services group in complex multi-party tribunal proceedings concerning TUPE, redundancies issues and alleged unfair dismissal.¬†In the education sector,¬†Ben Woods¬†led advice to a school facing a complex redundancy situation relating to a member of staff with mental health issues.¬†The team's education sector¬†expertise was further¬†strengthened with the addition of Christopher Mordue¬†from Pinsent Masons LLP;¬†Mordue is acting for a Russell Group university in a sexual harassment¬†claim and in relation to a national minimum wage investigation valued at ¬£0.5m. Cotton, Rice-Birchall, Woods and Mordue jointly lead the team, which includes legal director Louise Lightfood¬†and principal associate Rebecca Kitson.

Pinsent Masons LLP's employment team has strength in the retail, insurance and financial services sectors, with key clients including ASDA, RBS, HSBC Bank, Direct Line and RSA Insurance. Leveraging its employment expertise in support of corporate transactions, the team advised on employment aspects of¬†Zurich's sale of its UK workplace pensions and savings business to Lloyds Banking Group, as well as Legal & General's acquisition of¬†Inspired Villages. In a high-profile employment tribunal claim the practice is representing UK Sport in relation to a discrimination and whistle-blowing allegations¬†brought by former Olympian Jessica Varnish. The team also acted for SIG plc in relation to a claim¬†by the former managing director of SIG's business in Saudi Arabia, which required consideration of the territorial scope of UK legislation, as well as reference to the European Convention of Human Rights. Practice head Jon Fisher¬†is also instructed by a major UK produce supplier to provide strategy in an investigation into National Minimum Wage compliance by HMRC.¬†Changes to team have included¬†Christopher Booth's move to¬†Clarion¬†and¬†Christopher Mordue's departure to Eversheds Sutherland.

Squire Patton Boggs' 'five star' employment team is 'positive, commercial and client-focused'. With¬†'outstanding¬†strength and depth of experience' the group offers 'pragmatic advice¬†from a¬†practical perspective rather than a purely legal interpretation'.¬†The team benefits from 'very¬†broad international reach with strong local working relationships' and has been engaged in complex cross-border transactions and restructuring projects.¬†It is particularly well-known for its substantial retail sector expertise and has further increased its roster of clients in this industry over the past year.¬†The¬†'calm, assured, very practical' Andrew Stones¬†is 'knowledgeable about both the retail sector and the broader issues that currently impact client's businesses'. Beyond the retail sector, the¬†group has considerable experience acting for clients in the¬†manufacturing and engineering space.¬†The¬†'excellent' Matthew Lewis¬†heads the employment team which also includes¬†'impressive younger talent', such as the 'knowledgeable, personable and commercial' senior associate James Keogh. Other names to note include senior associates Gemma Finlayson¬†- who is praised for her 'close partnership with clients when dealing with complex matters' - and¬†'safe pair of hands' Louise Martin.

The employment team at¬†Clarion¬†combines 'in-depth legal knowledge and commercial acumen' with 'down-to-earth, professional, solid advice'.¬†The 'commercial and pragmatic' Sarah Tahamtani¬†heads the practice and has particular experience advising on TUPE issues. The team receives instructions from both large national and international companies, such as¬†Arla Foods and¬†Equiniti, as well as medium-sized and regional-based companies. The practice has a track record acting in complex contentious disputes, assisting with employment aspects of corporate transactions, and advising on technical points of law including employment status and outsourcing. The team also provides ongoing advice to corporates and offers bespoke training to client's HR staff. Senior associate Deborah Warren¬†is also well-regarded, particularly for handling re-organisation and restructuring of companies. Changes to the team include the arrival of Christopher Booth¬†from Pinsent Masons LLP, and the departure of John Robinson¬†to Schofield Sweeney.

The 'progressive' and 'down to earth'¬†team at¬†DAC Beachcroft LLP¬†'adopt a commercial approach' and handle both contentious and non-contentious employment work.¬†James Rhodes¬†leads the healthcare sector work and¬†represented Leeds Community Healthcare NHS Trust in a complex discrimination claim from a former employee claiming disability by virtue of menopause.¬†As well as being 'experts in dealing with NHS matters' the employment team acts for large corporates such as DHL, Typhoo Tea and, new client to the practice, BT plc.¬†The practice was also instructed by McDonald's Restaurants Limited in relation to industrial action at two of its restaurants, and strategically advised the company to successfully minimise business impact. Additionally, the team also act for Royal Mail and successfully obtained a high court injunction to prevent a national strike that if had gone ahead would have caused significant disruption to the Christmas period post. Arcadia Group is another key client of the practice and, in a non-contentious work highlight, a team advised on the terms and conditions of their apprenticeship programme and training agreement. The practice is headed up by¬†Louise Bloomfield, who has been consider to be 'a sector leader who punches above her weight', and praised for her ability to deal with complex TUPE issues and reorganisations of companies. 'Pragmatic' senior associate¬†Anjali Sharma¬†is also recommended.¬†

Lupton Fawcett's employment team offers 'timely pragmatic support' that is 'excellent value for money'. Practice head Andrew Gilchrist¬†is recognised for his¬†'knowledge, commercial acumen and speed of response' and is providing ongoing contentious and non-contentious employment advice to Northgate plc, including on gender pay gap reporting and holiday pay. Louise Connacher¬†is also recommended, particularly for national minimum wage expertise and investigation experience, an area on which she has advised clients such as¬†Hand Picked Hotels. In another work highlight, a team led by Angela Gorton¬†is representing Seabrooks Crisps in an ongoing unfair dismissal claim, relating to a¬†personal injury claim brought by the claimant prior to dismissal.¬†Brian Harrington¬†is another key partner in the group.

The 'timely, pragmatic and cost-effective' employment practice at Walker Morris LLP¬†is 'keen to add value at every stage'.¬†It acts for a broad range for international and national corporates, spanning from clients in retail, to those in the food and drink sector, to premier league football clubs such as Crystal Palace FC.¬†The practice continues to act for Asda Stores and, with Andrew Rayment¬†taking the lead, has advised¬†on¬†employment aspects of its acquisition of stores from the Co-op. Also in the retail sector, the team is instructed as sole legal advisor to Moss Bros Group and is currently assisting with both contentious and non-contentious matters. With a wealth of experience across the full-spectrum of employment matters, David Smedley¬†heads up the practice and leads representation of Mexichem on all employment issues across the group's UK sites. Director Shakeel Dad¬†is 'commercial, clear and focused on delivering a value-add service', and has recently secured instructions from Kraft Heinz and Safestyle plc.¬†The team's high-profile client list also includes Caterpillar, Toyota, Starbuck and Arla.

The employment team at¬†Ward Hadaway¬†'goes the extra mile for its clients', which include both companies and¬†senior executives, and has a particular strength and experience in the transport and healthcare sectors.¬†It handles all HR and employment issues for Stagecoach North East and is currently¬†defending a claim from a former employee who was dismissed following false allegations that he had injured himself at work. The practice has also acted for FirstGroup and RATP Dev London in several tribunal proceedings.¬†¬†In the healthcare sector, the team is advising the Lancashire Care NHS Foundation Trust on TUPE implications in a multi-site reorganisation, concerning approximately ¬£2m of employee liabilities. In another work highlight, the 'highly technically competent'¬†practice head Harmajinder Hayre¬†successfully represented FedEx UK in achieving a low value settlement in a complex claim which spanned issues of¬†unfair dismissal, disability discrimination, harassment, victimisation, breach of contract and breach of the working time regulations. Another key name to note, is the 'very¬†able and knowledgeable' Edward Nuttman, who 'takes an intelligent, proactive approach' and is 'prepared to "think outside the box‚ÄĚ to obtain the best outcome'. Richard Port left the team in 2017 to establish a specialist employment law firm.

With a 'blend strong technical knowledge, practical advice and great customer satisfaction' Blacks Solicitors LLP's employment ¬†team is 'friendly and affordable,¬†whilst also being pragmatic and commercial'.¬†Chris Allen¬†'leads by example' in heading¬†up the 'high achieving, modern and solid' practice which represents both SMEs and individuals. 'Star lawyer' Tom Moyes¬†has expertise in¬†disciplinary and grievance procedures and tribunal litigation, and is 'recommended for¬†pro-active and reactive legal advice, given in a caring and respectful manner'. Other key individuals include the 'knowledgeable, sensible and commercial' Richard Parr¬†and the¬†'personable' Paul Kelly. The¬†'enthusiastic and extremely dedicated' associate Euan Lawrence¬†is also recommended.

Capsticks LLP's employment team acts for employers in the health, emergency services, social care, housing and charity sectors. In keeping with the firm's specialist health expertise, clients include more than 200 NHS organisations, as well as private healthcare providers. The team acted for University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS Foundation Trust on a proposed mass transfer of staff, which required consideration of TUPE implications among other issues. Rachael Heenan¬†and¬†Ron Simms¬†jointly head the team and successfully defended¬†County Durham and Darlington NHS Foundation Trust in victimisation claims brought by two doctors following their referral to the General Medical¬†Council. Other clients include,¬†Humberside Fire and Rescue, Harewood House Trust and Askham Bryan College.

The employment law team at DWF¬†is noted for its 'good strength in depth' and 'pragmatic' advice. The Glasgow-based¬†Michael McLaughlin¬†heads the¬†national employment practice, which¬†has particular experience advising clients in the education, healthcare and retail sectors.¬†The group has advised employers on investigations relating to¬†worker status and national minimum wage, in unfair dismissal claims, as well as advising on day to day employment and HR matters including settlement agreements and terminations. Based in¬†the Leeds office,¬†Philippa O‚ÄôBrien¬†has experience assisting the corporate team in providing employment advice including in relation to M&A transactions. Clients of the practice include the Grammar School at Leeds, Yorkshire Building Society and LSS Waste. Former practice head Rob Riley¬†left the team to join¬†Ernst & Young Global Limited &gt; London.

Gordons LLP¬†has strength in the retail, transport education sectors, as well as in its representation of¬†Church of England dioceses.¬†The employment practice supports the firm's corporate team in providing employment advice on transactions, including on the ¬£25m management buyout of Sewtec Automation. The¬†'extremely helpful, positive and¬†knowledgeable' practice head Philip Paget¬†splits his time between the Leeds and the Bradford office and has a particular strength as a litigator. Senior solicitor Bryony Goldspink¬†leads on day to day employment advice to Lady Morrison. Clients include Allianz, Costcutter Supermarkets Group and Associated Waste Management. Tim Gooder¬†moved to¬†Bevan Brittan LLP.

Irwin Mitchell's employment team is recognised for its complex employment tribunal work and also advises on day-to-day and specific issues including on TUPE, contractual issues and restructuring.¬†The team defended Capita in several employment tribunal matters, including an unfair dismissal and whistleblowing claim. In this matter, senior associate Samantha Clark¬†lead advice, both on the proceedings and on strategy relating to management of the risk of reputational damage.¬†Practice head¬†Glenn Hayes¬†has experience advising corporates across a diverse range of industries, and acts for some of the practice's key national clients, such as Sky Betting & Gaming,¬†Barrett Steel and Persimmon Homes plc. Recently, he successfully defended the later in an allegation of detriment for having made a protected disclosure and assertion of a statutory right, in addition to claims of breach of contract and unlawful deductions from wages.¬†With a strong education sector practice, clients include several schools and colleges such as Leeds City College, White Rose Academies Trust and the Association of Colleges.¬†

Womble Bond Dickinson's¬†'excellent' employment team is experienced acting for companies both based in Yorkshire and across the UK, with the ability to call on the firms national office network. It advised Dnata, which forms part of the Emirates Group,¬†in relation to a number of transactions involving the transfers of a number of employees pursuant to TUPE, as well as in employment disputes.¬†Known for its representation of clients in the¬†chemicals and¬†manufacturing industry, the team is instructed by¬†Vertellus Specialties UK in several matters including a tribunal claim brought by a former employee alleging¬†a breach of contract. Additionally in this sector, the practice acts for Huntsman/Venator, and PX Group. Managing associate Ed Duffield¬† heads up the Leeds practice and supported the corporate department in advising new client Polyframe Group on strategy relating to a collective redundancy situation, arising from a closure of one of their manufacturing sites.

The employment practice at¬†Wrigleys Solicitors LLP¬†advises both employers and private clients on a spectrum of issues.¬†The team is singled out for¬†TUPE expertise,¬†¬†Dr John McMullen¬†is nationally recognised in this area and recently advised on complex TUPE aspects of the merger of three major UK arts organisations, as well as on¬†other¬†areas of HR support. The group is also known for representing charities and education sector clients in employment matters. Practice head¬†+Chris Billington¬†acted for charities on post transfer changes to employment terms and conditions and¬†Sue King¬†leads the¬†HR response and education response services, which focuses on providing ongoing employment advise to¬†charity and education clients.

Berwins¬†attracts praise for 'putting the client at the center¬†of everything that they do' and for offering 'timely,¬†detailed, insightful¬†advice' that 'represents true value for money'. The Harrogate-based practice, led by¬†Mike Patterson, acts primarily for SMEs, owner managed businesses and senior employee and directors of SMEs. Patterson was recently promoted to Director and has been highlighted for his 'stand out ability to articulate often complex and detailed information in an understandable and practical manner'. With a 'wealth of experience' senior partner¬†Paul Berwin¬†is another key name to note in this area. The team acts for Belzona Polymerics in ongoing advice and disputes and recently advised suit makers Berwin & Berwin on the implications of TUPE in¬†respect of its employees and concessions within various department stores across¬†the UK.

Paul Ball¬†and the 'brilliant' and 'innovative'¬†Gearalt Fahy¬†joined from¬†3volution Limited¬†to establish¬†Gateley Plc's¬†'modern, progressive, motivated and client focused' employment practice in Leeds. The two-partner team is able to draw upon the firm's national office network, and represents both smaller local businesses as well as several national and international employers with entrenched union arrangements. The practice recently acted for Cape plc in a harassment claim brought by one of its employees. Ball and Fahy also both regularly advise of strategy and non-contentious employment matters.

Langleys Solicitors LLP's York-based employment practice is led by¬†Mini Setty, who has particular expertise in equality and diversity issues, executive terminations, employment issues on business transfers and strategic project. Setty has been instructed to provide advice on employment status as well as corporate support employment advice. Recently, the team have also been acting for clients on TUPE and outsourcing issues.

Based in Huddersfield,¬†Ramsdens' 'excellent' employment group has the¬†capabilities to represent clients in a range of contentious and non-contentious matters, with 'a level of expertise at a price point that is difficult to find'.¬†The team has been bolstered with the addition of practice head¬†+David Bradley¬†from¬†DLA Piper UK LLP, who¬†attracts praise for his 'high level of knowledge and tailored advice' and has experience acting in multi-jurisdictional matters. The group is regularly instructed by companies and senior employees to handle disputes as well as advising on TUPE matters, redundancies and restructuring.¬†Jeremy Cook¬†is another key name to note.

Schofield Sweeney's employment practice represents clients in the education and healthcare sectors and is praised for its 'knowledge and quick response times'. The 'always excellent' practice head¬†Simon Shepherd¬†acts for plcs, SMEs and schools and academies in disputes, tribunal claims and non-contentious advice. The team was instructed by two GP practices¬†to advise¬†on the TUPE implications of moving staff from public to private sector, and managed restructuring and redundancies in addition to harmonising terms and conditions. In another work highlight,¬†Alexandra Clements¬†defended JD Sports Fashion in a number of tribunal claims alleging sexual harassment, discrimination and constructive dismissal. Other key names to note include¬†John Robinson¬†who recently joined from¬†Clarion.

The 'knowledgeable and proactive' employment practice at¬†Shulmans LLP¬†offers a 'professional, approachable and sympathetic' approach to contentious and advisory matters.¬†Ian Dawson¬†and¬†Jim Wright¬†jointly head the¬†practice which has¬†particular expertise across the professional services, independent schools, manufacturing and the regulatory sectors.¬†Wright led a team which successfully defended Ghana International Bank in claims brought by a former director who was dismissed for gross misconduct. In another work highlight, the group is advising Hartlepool Sixth Form College on all employment aspects of its merger with Sunderland College, including on TUPE implications. The 'calm, thoughtful, unflappable and intelligent'¬†Tom Watkins¬†was recently promoted to partner.

Ben Daniel¬†heads up Weightmans' national employment, pensions and immigration practice, which acts for clients in the transport and logistics sector. The group successfully defended Hoyer Petrolog UK in multi-day employment tribunal proceedings relating to alleged discrimination,¬†achieving¬†dismissal of all claims. In another highlight, it advised National Express on divestiture of part of its operations, which included a complex TUPE transfer.¬†The group also has a significant presence in the healthcare sector with clients including¬†Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust, York Teaching Hospital NHS Foundation Trust,¬†North Cumbria University Hospital and Cumbria NHS Foundation Trust.

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Find out which law firms are representing which Employment: Sheffield and South Yorkshire clients in Yorkshire and the Humber using The Legal 500's new comprehensive database of law firm/client relationships. Instantly search over 925,000 relationships, including over 83,000 Fortune 500, 46,000 FTSE350 and 13,000 DAX 30 relationships globally. Access is free for in-house lawyers, and by subscription for law firms. For more information, contact david.burgess@legal500.com.

DLA Piper UK LLP leverages its office network across the UK and abroad to act for national and international clients on contentious issues, as well as ongoing and strategic advice and audits.¬†The practice, headed by Clare Gregory, was instructed by a leading leisure and entertainment brand to advise on engagement of independent contractors, considering legal, tax and regulatory risks. The strong retail sector employment team, led by Gurpreet Duhra, acts for clients such as Mothercare, Puma and River Island. The department acted for Wilko Stores in relation to employment aspects of and relating to its procurement of transport services, including the termination of previous contracts and appointment of Wincanton. On the contentious front the team successfully represented Verizon in a claim for disability discrimination. In another work highlight, the department acted for a leading global manufacturer of packaging on providing strategic GDPR compliance across pan-Europe operations.¬†Other key clients include Paddy Power, Dixons Carphone Warehouse and the University of Sheffield.

CMS's national employment team acts for clients in the private and public sector on a range of employment and HR issues. Tracey Marsden¬†is a key name in the Sheffield office, and is instructed to advise upon TUPE matters, restructuring and redundancy situations, in addition to disputes. In a recent work highlight, Marsden led a team representing UK Coal Kellingley in a claim brought by the National Union of Mine Workers, alleging a failure to consult prior to the closure of a mine resulting in redundancies of 700 employees. The practice successfully limited the award, reducing the original claim of 90 days pay per employee to 30 days. The practice also regularly assists other departments within the firm to advise on employment aspects of transactions. It supported the corporate and real estate groups acting for Urban & Civic on the company's ¬£39.9m acquisition of Priors Hall Park, including both a development site and company shares. This involved advising on employment aspects including due diligence, issues relating to unusual employment arrangements and TUPE.

HLW Keeble Hawson¬†handles contentious and non-contentious employment matters; while best known for representing SME and larger companies, the team also acts for individuals in complex tribunal claims. Barry Warne¬†heads the practice in Sheffield and has extensive expertise in TUPE matters, employment tribunal representation and executive severances. The practice successfully represented White House Farm Medical Centre in defending a claim regarding alleged unfair dismissal for whistleblowing,¬†and acted for DefibShop in relation to the transfer of two employees to the company's New York office; ¬†as well as advising on the options and structure of the transfer, the team advised on pensions, national insurance, PAYE and insurance in addition to drafting documentation. The 'practical and pragmatic' Lauren Pickard¬† was recently promoted to senior associate and has particular expertise in supporting the firms corporate team in transactions. She acted for RCI Europe on employment aspects of the company's acquisition of The Social Travel Club, which included extensive due diligence, service agreements and an atypical settlement agreement to allow the company flexibility to terminate employment contracts. Chesterfield Football Club and Sheffcare are additional clients.

Kirsty Ayre¬†leads Irwin Mitchell‚Äôs Sheffield-based employment team, which is frequently instructed by large corporates in a full spectrum of both employment and HR matters. The practice continues to advise easyJet on tribunal claims as well as on strategic employment issues. In another recent work example, the department is advising a plc in the IT services sector on restructuring, including redundancies and the exit of senior employees. Ayre also led a team acting for a global services business in a tribunal claim for travel time to be paid under the national minimum wage regulations, as well as in a related HMRC audit. Liesel Whitfield¬†left the team to join Ellis Whittam¬†.

The Sheffield-based employment team at¬†Lupton Fawcett¬†works closely with its Leeds and York offices and offers the full spectrum of employment advice across the region. Practice head¬†Andrew Gilchrist¬†continues to¬†lead advice to Arcelor Mittal including on general HR matters such as maternity issues, flexible working, recruitment, performance and conduct issues as well as in potential disputes.¬†The 'extremely knowledgeable and professional'¬†Joan Pettingill¬†is recommended, particularly for her expertise in the care sector. Pettingill represents Roche Healthcare¬†on a range of HR advice across multiple sites. British Glass Manufacturers Confederation is another key client, the practice is instructed by the national company both in day to day employment advice, dismissals as well as in contentious matters, including from early conciliation and preliminary hearings to tribunals.

Taylor & Emmet LLP¬†represents clients ranging from national plcs to local SMEs on a range of employment matters.¬†National clients include the Institute of the Motor Industry¬†and, within Yorkshire, the team acts for¬†Sheffield and Hallamshire County Football Association and Museums of Sheffield.¬†With particular experience in the healthcare sector, the team also advises Rotherham Hospice, St. Luke's Hospice and Abbey Care & Nursing Home. The practice has recently handled matters concerning national minimum wage, as well as complex employment tribunal disputes including those considering issues of¬†employment status, breach of contract, automatically unfair constructive dismissal and detriment on the grounds of whistle-blowing.¬†Simon Brian¬†joined from MKB Solicitors LLP¬†to head the employment team following the departure of the former practice head Tom Draper¬†to¬†Freeths LLP¬†.

Mark Serby¬† heads up the employment practice at Wake Smith Solicitors Limited¬†which represents local SMEs as well as individuals.¬† ¬†Holly Dobson¬†has been assisting clients with GDPR preparation and advice, delivering compliance advice to clients such as Westfield Contributory Health Scheme, Sheffield Diocese and SSAFA Forces Help (Sheffield). The practice has also been acting for¬†companies in employment tribunal proceedings, including in a claim concerning employment status. Other highlights included restructuring work and dealing with departures of senior employees, including advising on post-termination restrictions.¬†

The 'friendly and approachable' employment team at¬†Howells¬†is known primarily for its representation of employees in tribunal claims.¬†Clare Fowler¬†¬†and Tom Bernard¬†jointly head the team, which is supported by head of¬†civil litigation Graham Hogarth. Fowler has particular experience delivering discrimination advice, while Bernard is recommended for his 'balanced advice, thorough and clear communication' in relation to claims. The team has recently handled¬†disability¬†discrimination¬†claims, in addition to unfair dismissal claims under TUPE. The practice also has experience acting for SMEs, including advising one employer on a complex redundancy matter.

Taylor Bracewell¬† provides 'an¬†excellent, professional and personalised¬†service', as well as 'timely, robust, sound and responsive HR advice'. The team handles employment work for small local businesses, large employers and¬†charities,¬†in addition to claims brought by employees.¬†The 'technically gifted and very personable' Steven Conway¬†heads the practice following Sara Ellison's departure to Banner Jones Solicitors;¬†he is recommended for being 'very¬†creative in his approach' to complex employment issues.¬†The 'reliable, dependable, responsive and well- informed' Jessica Lidster¬†is also praised by clients for her 'calm, professional and reassuring manner'. Clients include¬†Sheffield Citizens Advice and G3.

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Lukas Rootman
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CMS

Find out which law firms are representing which Health and safety clients in Yorkshire and the Humber using The Legal 500's new comprehensive database of law firm/client relationships. Instantly search over 925,000 relationships, including over 83,000 Fortune 500, 46,000 FTSE350 and 13,000 DAX 30 relationships globally. Access is free for in-house lawyers, and by subscription for law firms. For more information, contact david.burgess@legal500.com.

The¬†health and safety team at¬†CMS, led by¬†Lukas Rootman, is recommended for its 'punchy, timely, real world and on point advice'. The team regularly advises corporate clients in¬†investigations and prosecutions, inquests and non-contentious matters such as strategic reviews and compliance advice. Rootman provides an¬†'outstanding service' which 'inspires confidence in times of internal pressure and stress', and has experience handling complex, high-value and multi-jurisdictional matters. Carl Dray¬†is also instructed in criminal and civil safety related work and has particular expertise in defendant insurance matters.¬† The department is experienced in acting for multi-national companies across a range of industries, including retail, energy, waste management and property. Costco, ASOS, Veolia, Biffa and Grosvenor are all clients of the practice which has recently also been instructed by Valero and Vita Group.¬†

The safety, health and environment team at DAC Beachcroft LLP ¬†comprises of 'excellent, streamlined health and safety experts' praised for their 'breadth of knowledge and experience'. The team receives instructions from major insurance sector clients such Aviva, Alliance, Zurich and AXA. It is also experienced in representing companies, including new clients Tata Chemicals Europe, Atkins and DB Cargo UK. The 'extensively experienced' Chris Baranowski¬†is 'confident and assured and thorough in his approach' and is particularly known for handling corporate manslaughter matters and health and safety investigations by the Police and HSE.¬†Tracey Longfield¬†has particular expertise in defending both individuals and organisations in criminal proceedings and also has 'exceptional knowledge of the healthcare sector and how it is regulated'.¬†The team also benefits from the addition of¬†¬†Kirsty Gomersal's 'excellent technical grasp of the subject area' and 'eye for detail' following her arrival to the team from Clyde & Co LLP. Gomersal has experience handling¬†multi-jurisdictional matters in the US and Scotland and jointly heads the team alongside Longfield and¬†Baranowski.¬†With 'huge attention to detail, excellent knowledge base and sound judgment', recently promoted associate Mathew Breakell¬† has been regarded as being 'one to watch'.

DLA Piper UK LLP's¬†health and safety practice offers integrated¬†contentious and non‚ÄĎcontentious representation and is adept at delivering¬†general risk management and ongoing advice as well as defending clients in¬†investigations and prosecutions. Sheffield-based Teresa Hitchcock¬†heads up the national safety, health and environment practice and leverages her extensive experience as a¬†senior environmental and health and safety regulator in local government in advising clients¬†in both large and small businesses and in the public sector. In addition to having a strong national practice, the team is able to utilise its international office network to provide a global service. The team is currently representing Keller Group plc in producing a comprehensive health and safety guide that is compliant with local law across many jurisdictions. The team is also instructed¬†by Natural Environment Research Council, Pfizer and Fenner plc. Legal director Ailish Oxenforth¬†is a¬†key name to note in the Sheffield office, and has acted in matters requiring complex advice as well as in high-profile investigations. Stuart Ponting¬†departed to the practice to join Walker Morris LLP & Leeds.

Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP's¬†national health and safety practice is headed by¬†Kevin Elliott¬†and¬†handles contentious and non-contentious health and safety matters, including consulting on policy and compliance and advising on training of clients across a broad spectrum of industries.¬†Paul Verrico, based in the Leeds office,¬†led a team representing Tarmac Marine in its prosecution by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency for a breach of Maritime Asbestos legislation. The team achieved a significantly reduced fine for its client in this matter. Additionally, a team led by Newcastle-based¬†Tim Hill¬†represented Greencore Grocery in police and HSE investigations following a contractor fatality. In¬†an example of the practice's advisory work, the team was instructed by a large UK power company in relation to reviewing contracts, procedures and risks.

Pinsent Masons LLP¬†Leeds's health and safety practice is¬†'among the best' in the region. It¬†acts for corporate clients in both contentious matters as well as in preventative¬†ongoing and regulatory advice. ¬†The 'conscientious and clever' and 'ultra-efficient'¬†legal director¬†Sarah Taylor¬†heads the 'outstanding' health and safety team based in Leeds, which also affords the support of the firm's national practice led by Kevin Bridges. With Taylor's 'wealth of retail related safety experience, clients have considered her to be at the 'top of her game' in relation to the retail and food sector. The team's reputation has resulted in new client wins in this industry, as well as continued instructions from well-known brands such as Asda Stores. Other clients include William Hill, Aida Engineering and Balfour Beatty.

The 'massively effective'¬†health and safety group at¬†Addleshaw Goddard¬†is recommended for its 'profound attention to detail, coupled with an acute awareness of client‚Äôs requirements and superb litigating and negotiating skills'. The practice forms part of the¬†wider corporate crime team and is¬†predominantly known for defending clients¬†in¬†crisis management situations. It acted for Accrol Papers in relation to an investigation following injuries sustained by an employee, and successfully reduced the perceived culpability of the company from high to medium, resulting in a significantly reduced fine. In addition to representation of clients in¬†investigations and prosecutions, the team is becoming increasingly involved in providing ongoing compliance advice.¬†The¬†'bright, well-organised,¬†knowledgeable'¬†Erin Shoesmith¬†was recently promoted to partner and heads the national health and safety team.¬†Britvic Soft Drinks, Boohoo.com and¬†United Utilities Water are all clients.
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Paul Matthews¬†heads the regulatory, compliance and investigations team at¬†DWF, which has been instructed in some of the most high-profile health and safety investigations and prosecutions in the UK.¬†The team handles matters for national companies such as Kwik-Fit and Poundworld as well as regional clients such as Electricity North West. It has also acted for a charity in a corporate manslaughter investigation, and routinely represents individuals. The practice recently advised a senior manager in relation to an investigation by the police, in conjunction with the¬†HSE, for corporate manslaughter, health and safety and fire offences.¬†Other key names to note include senior associates¬†Sarah Smith, who joined the team in March 2018 from¬†Irwin Mitchell, and¬†Mark Thompson. Thompson is a criminal defence lawyer and since joining the team in January 2017 has represented¬†individual directors and employees, in addition to assisting in defending high-value claims and investigations.¬†

Kennedys¬†' 'extremely knowledgeable' regulatory defence team has been considered as 'outstanding' in health and safety matters. Praised for its 'excellent response times and value for money', the practice is best known for defending organisations and individuals under investigation. The team is experienced in handling matters from the¬†date of an incident to, and including, trials. In a¬†matter¬†involving complex issues surrounding the liability of individual directors for the health and safety failings, it was instructed by a waste management company and its managing director in relation to a fatality, and another incident resulting in the amputation of a worker's arm.¬†The practice is led by London-based¬†Daniel McShee¬†and includes the 'very approachable' senior associate¬†Anna Naylor¬†in the Sheffield office.

The health and safety team at Walker Morris LLP is praised for providing an 'incredibly efficient environment that is committed to excellent client care', and for having 'experienced¬†solicitors with a real grasp on the practical realities of litigation for their clients'.¬†In a complex and high-profile matter, the team is acting for a demolition engineer in a joint police and HSE investigation following the¬†Didcot Power Station¬†collapse¬†which resulted in four fatalities. In this ongoing matter the practice has advised the client through interviews and investigations and will continue to represent the individual up to and including in any Crown Court trial.¬†The team is also recognised for its ability to¬†'guide large organisations through complex litigation' and¬†is also instructed by Arla Foods in a¬†HSE¬†prosecution. In addition to dealing with crisis management, incident response and major investigations the practice offers¬†non-contentious, compliance and assurance advice. Jeanette Burgess¬†heads the team, which¬†was bolstered by the arrival of¬†+Stuart Ponting¬†from DLA Piper UK LLP. Ponting has the¬†'knowledge and experience to pick apart a case and rebuild it in his clients interests', and¬†is particularly experienced acting for clients in the food, retail and construction and demolition sectors.¬†With a 'brilliant client manner and impressive knowledge' senior associate¬†+Claire Burrows¬†has 'the¬†flair to identify fresh, penetrative angles to best represent her client'.

Weightmans¬† Leeds' 'impressive'¬†health and safety team¬†is highlighted for its 'pro-active, first class advice' in contentious matters, including in investigations, inquests and prosecutions. Leeds-based'astute lawyer'David Lewis¬† heads the national¬†regulatory services unit. Lewis has 'an immense knowledge in this area' and is instructed in a broad range of matters, from corporate and gross negligence manslaughter investigations through to sensitive jury inquests. The practice has expertise advising corporates, such as Jaguar Land Rover; insurer sector clients; public bodies, such as East Riding of Yorkshire Council; and charities. The team also represents individuals, and recently acted for an employee of Wakefield Council at an inquest following a fatality. In another work highlight, the group acted for the Police and Crime Commissioner for Cleveland and the Chief Constable for Cleveland Police in an audit and review following an application from the Professional Standards Department for access to telecommunications data.

The 'niche' health and safety team at Andrew Jackson Solicitors LLP¬†is known for its 'excellent' representation of clients in the shipping and transport space. The 'incredibly¬†pragmatic' practice assists clients in investigations and prosecutions from¬†the Police and agencies such as the HSE, MCA and the Environment Agency.¬†The 'exceptionally practical' Andrew Oliver¬† has been highlighted as being the 'complete package' with 'few others having¬†his experience and knowledge' of health and safety matters in shipping and transport.¬†Litigator Jeff Swales¬† has a depth of experience handling inquests and prosecutions arising from fatal accidents across a range of industries. In addition to transport sector clients, the team also advises local, regional and national businesses in manufacturing, waste management, higher education and renewable energy.

BLM's safety, health and environment group sits within the firm's wider corporate risk team, and is experienced in handling regulatory matters for public and private sector clients¬†as well as individuals. The team frequently acts for clients in investigations, inquests and prosecutions, including in cases of corporate manslaughter and gross negligence manslaughter.¬† Clients include insurers, including Zurich Insurance plc,¬†Towergate and Hiscox, in addition to local and national companies. The practice has particular experience advising on incidents arising from construction, engineering and manufacturing.¬†Office head¬†Henry Kirkup¬†leads the practice and is 'great at getting to the heart of a case'.¬†The 'reliable and hard working' associate Roxanne Udale¬†is also recommended.¬†Richard Clarke retired from the team.

With 'expertise of the highest calibre' the 'speedy and knowledgeable' health and safety team at Gateley Plc¬†is 'excellent all round'. The team handles matters at all stages including providing initial crisis management advice in addition to advising on investigations and at inquest and prosecution.¬†The practice represented¬†Dr. Oetker (UK) in lengthy investigations and prosecution by the HSE arising from an incident involving a forklift truck resulting in¬†life changing injuries. Birmingham-based Ruth Armstrong¬†heads the national practice which includes the 'thorough and professional' Pauline Munro¬†in the Leeds office. Recently promoted partner Monroe has significant expertise in advising clients in manufacturing, retail, food and construction and is additionally considered 'excellent and effective in areas of environmental'.

The team at¬†Plexus Law¬†'give sound advice from the straight forward to the most complex' health and safety matters. Representing Whirlpool in the court of appeal on a matter relating to subcontractor fatality, the practice successfully received a fine reduction of 50% from the initial judgement. The team also acts for insurers, and was instructed by QBE in relation to the investigation and prosecution of Tata Steel UK by the HSE, following¬†workers being exposed to a toxic and highly flammable substance. Other insurer clients include AIG, Chubb and Aspen. Noted for being 'proactive as well as reactive', the practice, as well as frequently acting in investigations and prosecutions, also provide ongoing compliance advice to clients.¬†Practice head¬†Anthony Baker¬†'leads his team exceptionally', and in addition to¬†Chris Foulkes, has been considered to 'stand out' due to their 'vast experience'. Also recommended are 'exceptional lawyers'¬†Jonathon Tetley¬†and associate partner Ciaran Garnett, who is 'able to handle the most detail heavy cases'.

Immigration

Immigration

Find out which law firms are representing which Immigration clients in Yorkshire and the Humber using The Legal 500's new comprehensive database of law firm/client relationships. Instantly search over 925,000 relationships, including over 83,000 Fortune 500, 46,000 FTSE350 and 13,000 DAX 30 relationships globally. Access is free for in-house lawyers, and by subscription for law firms. For more information, contact david.burgess@legal500.com.

The¬†'ambitious, driven and diligent'¬†team¬†at Bankfield Heath Solicitors¬† handles the full spectrum of immigration mattes and has¬†'a¬†reputation for dealing with cases sensitively and carefully'. The¬†specialist firm has¬†'an exceptional understanding of global immigration law'. Noted for her¬†'professional, empathetic work ethic',¬†'top-notch lawyer'¬†Amie Higgins¬†is recommended for her 'specialist knowledge in assisting asylum seekers and survivors of trafficking'. The Leeds-based¬†Istikhar Ahmed, who co-founded the firm alongside Higgins, focuses predominantly on business immigration work.¬†Clients also highlight 'committed, considerate and compassionate' caseworker¬†+Chloe Chambers¬†.

The 'five-star' team at Carter Thomas Solicitors¬†is 'knowledgeable, and quick in giving advice and understanding the business context'. Clients include education-sector clients, high-net-worth individuals and businesses. It has been instructed by a UK University to provide compliance advice in order to pass UKVI inspections, and is acting for an¬†Indian tech company, successfully¬†obtained an urgent sponsor licence in under a week. The team has also seen an increase in instructions from EEA nationals applying for permanent residence in the UK following the decision of the UK to leave the EU.¬†Nichola Carter¬†'eads the way with her entrepreneurial energy' and is highlighted¬†for her expertise in dealing with visa compliance issues involving the Home Office and UKVI.

Howells¬†immigration team has particular experience handling asylum matters, human rights issues and family migration.¬†Nadeem Ahmed¬†heads the practice and led a team which successfully represented an individual before the administrative court opposing the Secretary of State for the Home Department's (SSHD) rejection of the claim that the claimant was a victim of human trafficking. The SSHD was ordered to reconsider the case and pay costs. In another work highlight, the group acted for an asylum seeker from Sri Lanka before the court of appeal, in a case which was later settled. Another key name to note is¬†Rashdah Kauser.

The 'fantastic' team at¬†Kingswell Watts Solicitors¬†is regularly instructed by both individuals and companies in a range of immigration matters.¬† The Dewsbury-based practice is led by the 'friendly and amenable'¬†Ilyas Bulbulia¬†who has been advising a large international retailer on a broad range of immigration law, including on its sponsor licence. The team has also been advising a local council on the procedure for assessing migrant eligibility for employment, this has required consideration of the Equality Act 2010.

Parker Rhodes Hickmotts¬†benefits from three offices across Yorkshire and has a strong immigration, asylum and human rights practice. Rotherham-based¬†Christopher Cole¬†heads up the team which also includes¬†Shazia Yousaf.

Leading individuals

Find out which law firms are representing which Pensions clients in Yorkshire and the Humber using The Legal 500's new comprehensive database of law firm/client relationships. Instantly search over 925,000 relationships, including over 83,000 Fortune 500, 46,000 FTSE350 and 13,000 DAX 30 relationships globally. Access is free for in-house lawyers, and by subscription for law firms. For more information, contact david.burgess@legal500.com.

Addleshaw Goddard's pensions group represents blue chip corporates, key regional businesses and trustee boards in a range of both contentious and non-contentious matters.¬†Rachel Rawnsley¬†heads the national pensions practice, and is supported by Jade Murray, Susan Garrett¬†and¬†Rachel Uttley¬†in the Yorkshire region. The practice is instructed by Saga plc on a cross-border matter consulting staff on amendments to pension schemes. In another work highlight, the¬†team advised WPP 2005 on the ¬£150m buy-in transaction of all pensioner and deferred liabilities¬†with Pension Insurance Corporation, involving five defined benefit schemes.¬†The team has also been engaged by the trustees of a number of pension schemes to provide data protection advice prior to the implementation of the GDPR.¬†With particular experience in both the education and retail sector, key clients of the group include the trustees of the University of Sheffield and the University of Leeds pension schemes, in addition to the trustees of the Asda Group Pension Scheme and Asda Pension Plan and the Co-operative Group. The team also has experience representing clients in the manufacturing, financial services and institutions, and energy and utilities industries.

Boasting 'excellent service, knowledge, and strength in depth'¬†Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP &gt; Leeds's¬†'outstanding' pensions team is described as offering 'London expertise at regional rates'.¬†The 'particularly impressive' Richard Shelton¬† heads up the team which is instructed by large well known companies, public sector clients and large insurers. The team is bolstered with the arrival of Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP¬†,¬†formerly at¬†Squire Patton Boggs , Leeds, who led advice to US healthcare logistics company¬†Owens & Minor on UK pension issues arising from the company's $710m acquisition of Halyard Health‚Äôs healthcare consumables business. In this matter the team leveraged the firm's international expertise to handle¬†pensions and termination indemnity issues in Honduras, Thailand, Germany and France. Head of the¬†pensions litigation department, Claire Carroll¬† is a key name to note for contentious matters.¬†Principal associate Gemma Hanley¬† is also singled out for her 'exceptional knowledge' of energy sector pension schemes. Hanley has expertise representing utility companies and advises Anglian Water Services on a broad range of pensions issues.¬†There have been some changes to the team include¬†the departure of Simon Evans¬†to DLA Piper UK LLP.

The¬†pensions and long-term savings department at Pinsent Masons LLP, headed up by Jacqui Timmins, handles the full spectrum of contentious and non-contentious pensions matters.¬†Tom Barton¬†leads the firm's national defined contribution pensions group, with key clients including the Manitowoc Pension Plan, the Nobia Pension Plan and the Schneider Electric DC Trust. The practice also has expertise representing large companies and defined benefit schemes, master trusts and financial services firms.¬†The team acted for the trustees of the Hickson UK Group Pension Scheme to deliver a consolidation of the highly complex scheme rules. In another work highlight, it is also instructed by¬†the trustees of the Croda Group Pension Scheme to advise on investment of the schemes substantial assets. The group also boasts a strong dispute resolution practice,¬†Andrew Masterson¬†and Julian Sladdin¬†are key names to note for pensions litigation.

The pension department at¬†Squire Patton Boggs¬†is regularly instructed by public sector clients and not-for-profit organisations, in addition to companies and insurers.¬†London-based¬†+Clifford Sims¬†heads the national practice taking over from Catherine McKenna !Leeds¬†who continues to handle matters from the Leeds office.¬†The Leeds-based team also boasts the addition of¬†Elizabeth Graham !Leeds¬†from the firm's Manchester office. Graham continues to advise the trustees of the Northern Powergrid Group of the Electricity Supply Pension Scheme on several matters. In another key representation McKenna and Graham are leading advice to the trustees of the Pentair UK DB Scheme on complex covenant and security issues.¬†Additional changes to the team include the¬†promotion of¬†Jane Briggs !Leeds¬† to director, and¬†Anthea Whitton's departure to¬†Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP.

The 'commercial, sensible and reasonably priced' pensions department at¬†Walker Morris LLP¬†provides 'a strong professional service combining good technical knowledge of the law with commercial acumen'. Jo Ratcliffe¬†heads the team which continues to act as Capita Group's sole pensions legal adviser. In another work highlight, the practice provided UK pensions advice to Selecta in connection with its acquisition of¬†Pelican Rouge. The group also has extensive experience handling a range of disputes, with¬†Gwendoline Davies¬†leading the pensions litigation team. In addition to acting for large companies and trustees the practice was recently instructed by¬†Northumbria Police Authority. The 'exceptionally bright and personable' Craig Looker¬† and 'very experienced' Ruth Bamforth¬†were recently promoted to director.¬†Looker is highlighted for his 'excellent capacity to bring innovation to a situation', and Bamforth is recommended for her 'calm approach and skill for contextualising matters'.

Wrigleys Solicitors LLP¬†has a 'professional, knowledgeable and personable' pensions practice is praised for its 'candour and approachability'.¬†The team is known for acting for trustees and employers across a spectrum of matters and additionally has¬†experience representing public sector pensions. It is instructed by the¬†¬£0.5bn¬†Aviva Master Trust and is¬†advising its trustees on defined contribution transfers and GDPR compliance. Head of department¬†+Leigh Holmes¬†has particular expertise handling buy-ins and buy-outs and was recently instructed in the¬†restructuring¬†and¬†winding-up of several schemes. Another key name to note is¬†+Raymond Ainscoe, highlighted for his 'personable style and thorough approach'. Changes to the team include the promotion of the¬†'extremely knowledgeable'¬†+Rebecca Cooke¬†to consultant and the departure of Maragaret Allison.¬†¬†

'Standout boutique' ARC Pensions Law¬†opened its Leeds office in May 2017, and 'made a big¬†impact' with its 'user-friendly and solutions oriented approach'. The practice comprises of a 'well-established team of senior lawyers' and is headed up by Vikki Massarano¬†and Kate Payne,¬†who were both previously at DLA Piper UK LLP. The 'quality outfit' attracts praise for its 'thoughtful, clear and concise advice' to both companies and trustees in both disputes and on non-contentious matters. The 'extremely personable' Massarano has been described as 'an industry leader' and has particular experience advising on pensions aspects of corporate transactions. Payne has expertise advising trustees and employers on a full spectrum of pensions matters, including¬†scheme mergers and benefit changes. Legal director¬†Max Ballad¬†, also previously from¬†DLA Piper UK LLP, is singled out as being 'technically very strong'.

The 'excellent' pensions team at CMS¬†has 'good industry knowledge' and offers clients 'clear and concise advice'. The 'pragmatic and commercial'¬†John Hanratty¬†heads the pensions practice for the North and has particular expertise advising on public service pension schemes. Hanratty, alongside senior associate¬†+Jayne Firth, is instructed by the¬†NG Bailey Group to advise on pension arrangements for its¬†defined benefit scheme and master trust. The team recently advised the client on the risk management relating to flexible retirement options for members. In an example highlighting the firms capabilities in contentious matters,¬†Richard Wilson¬†is representing Dr Raffi Baghdjian in a dispute arising from an alleged miscalculation of a NHS Pension Scheme.

The pensions practice at¬†DLA Piper UK LLP¬†is now headed up¬†Andrew McIlhinney¬†(who was previously based at the firm's Liverpool office) following the departure of the former team to establish¬†ARC Pensions Law. The practice regularly advises trustees, sponsoring employers and scheme providers on full spectrum of pensions matters. The group acted for the trustees of a Carbon Black Manufacturer's Occupational Pension Scheme¬†on the buy-out of all benefits and additionally advised, post-closure, on trustee liability. In another work highlight, the team handled all pension issues arising from Link Group's purchase of Capita Asset Services. In Leeds, McIlhinney is joined by the 'very pragmatic and practical'¬†Simon Evans, formerly at¬†Eversheds Sutherland (International) LLP, and associates¬†Hannah Watson¬†and¬†¬†David Molyneux¬†who joined from¬†DWF¬†and¬†Squire Patton Boggs¬†respectively. The practice is also bolstered by pensions litigator¬†David Young.

Highlighted for its 'quality of advice, reliability and client focus' Womble Bond Dickinson (UK) LLP's pension team represents companies, such as IBM and Northern Powergrid plc,¬†in a range of contentious and non-contentious matters. Headed up¬†by Newcastle-based Martin Poore,¬†the department includes Alex Rodger¬†in the Leeds office. The practice advised Procter & Gamble¬†on the pension implications of the $12.5bn sale of its¬†beauty brands to Coty Inc and acted for Signet Group in relation to the closure of its defined benefit scheme.

Interview with...

Law firm partners and practice heads explain how their firms are adapting to clients' changing needs

A Tier 1 Entrepreneur Visa provides a gateway to entry and settlement in the UK for non-EEA individuals who wish to launch a start-up or invest in and become a director of a UK company running the business. There are advantages to entering Britain on the entrepreneur visa route; an applicant can bring their dependent family members with them, and there is also an opportunity to fast-track settlement applications if certain criteria are met.

The UK leaves the European Union in less than six months. With the number of EU nationals coming to the UK for work reducing, having a valid Tier2 Sponsor Licence is more crucial than ever for organisations whorely on foreign talent to meet customer demands.

London¬† business immigration ¬†lawyers have noticed an increase in applications for¬† Tier 1 Investor Visas ¬†by ultra-high net worth individuals, fuelled in part by political instability in nations such as Russia and China, and also by changes to US¬† Immigration .¬† British Citizenship lawyers are often approached about this visa route as it is seen as a ‚Äėfast track‚Äô route to settlement in the UK.